‘There are many small wars’ – Pep Guardiola suggests reason why he won’t manage Barcelona again ahead of Man City contract expiry

Guardiola, who started his managerial career at Barcelona, went on to become the most successful coach in the history of the club. He left after spending just four years at Camp Nou and has since then claimed on multiple occasions that his fatigue and the internal politics drove him away from his beloved Barca.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  With the legendary manager’s current City contract expiring in the summer of 2025, Guardiola has been linked with a possible return to the Catalan club but the 53-year-old has explained why is unlikely to return to the club in the future. It was reported last month that the City boss could consider penning one last contract that would extend his stay at Etihad until 2026.

  WHAT PEP GUARDIOLA SAID

  Speaking to TV3, Guardiola said: “From my point of view, Barca should not change its model. From the outside, everyone sees Barca as something different. This club gives off a charisma, and a special smell. What greater praise can you receive?

  “It has always been like this, and it always will be. It has happened to all of us. Here the shots come from everywhere, and every day. But the ones that hurt the most are the ones that arise from within. There are many small wars within Barca every day. In the end, you come to the conclusion that the only thing that matters is convincing your players of your idea and what you think should be done. As for the rest, it is better not to enter to take care of your own health.”

  He added: “The danger of daily fatigue that comes with trying to manage the Barca environment. The scorn for what you do is constant and this ends up taking its toll on you.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER CITY?

  City, who currently have a one-point lead over Liverpool at the top of the table, will be next seen in action against Bournemouth in an away Premier League fixture on Saturday.